Acid Reflux with Bisoma Acupuncture and Asian Herbs
Total years in practice: 20
Complaints: Some esophageal herniation even after a surgical
correction. As needed, he was taking proton inhibitor to control acid. Frequent
burping. Heart burn with egg whites, pasta, and stress.
Acupuncture: Right-side Yin Horary points in Wood Order of
LR1, HT8, SP3, LU8, and KD10. Herbal formula Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang (Huang Qi, Bai
Zhu, Dang Gui, Chen Pi, Huo Xiang, Zi Su Ye, Zhi Gan Cao, Sheng Jiang, and Da
Zao) for a constitution with Lesser Yin and Greater Yin combination (aka Kapha
in Ayurveda, Cold-Dry Melancholic in Unani, and Soeumin in Korean Sasang).
Treatment process: This patient had 8 visits in 3 months. Initially,
acupuncture twice a week and gradually tapered down as symptoms improved. The GERD
had lessened weekly. By the end of three months, symptoms were mostly gone. He
hardly needed antacid, even after eating aggravating foods and stress.
Discussion: Cold body types have the more incidences of digestive
tract diseases. And they do not do well with eggs and gluten. Huang Qi is good
for prolapse and hernia. Digestive herbs such as Bai Zhu and Huo Xiang help to
regulate acid reflux. Being young, this patient had a higher potential for
improvement. From a highly educated and science-oriented family, this patient
was pleasantly surprised with such a dramatic and quick improvement.
